The immediate past Registrar of the University of Ibadan, Mrs. Olubunmi Faluyi, has underscored the strategic importance of registry workers in Nigerian universities, calling for equal recognition alongside academic staff. Faluyi made the call on Thursday in Lagos while delivering the maiden lecture of the Registry Lecture Series organized by Trinity University, Yaba.
Speaking on the topic, “Responding to the Dynamics of Change in University Governance: The Strategic Role of the Registry,” Faluyi emphasized that administrative workers should not view themselves—or be treated—as inferior to lecturers or other academic staff. According to her, the efficient functioning of a university depends on the collective contributions of all staff, from lecturers to drivers and gatemen.
“No worker should feel either inferior or superior to another,” she said. “Every role is important in the university system. The Registry is not just an administrative unit—it is the heartbeat, the memory custodian, and the driving engine of the university.”
The event drew participants from several institutions across the country, including the University of Lagos, University of Ibadan, Precious Cornerstone University, Redeemer’s University, Abiola Ajimobi Technical University, Chrisland University, Lagos State University of Education, Bowen University, Maranatha University, and Yaba College of Technology.
Faluyi, who joined the University of Ibadan as a store officer in 1988 and rose to become the institution’s 12th Registrar, shared personal experiences to inspire non-academic staff. Recalling a time when her position was belittled, she said, “When I became Registrar, I told that same person, ‘Now, I am a professor in my own calling by the grace of God.’”
She stressed that professionalism and dignity in service would earn administrators lasting respect, encouraging staff to stay committed to their duties without compromising their values.
Commenting on internal administrative practices, Faluyi criticized staff who bypass the office of the Registrar to report directly to the Vice-Chancellor on matters that fall within the Registrar’s responsibilities. She described the trend as “academic suppression,” which she noted is common but unacceptable in university governance.
Faluyi further challenged registry staff to pursue doctoral degrees and research grants, highlighting that non-academic staff also contribute to the intellectual development of the university. “Don’t entertain inferiority complexes. Know your work just as academic staff know theirs,” she said.
She emphasized the evolving role of the Registry in light of technological advancement and shifting stakeholder expectations, urging registry staff to play a leading role in translating institutional policies into effective administrative processes.
“As we look to the future, the Registry must reclaim its place as a strategic player in shaping governance, fostering excellence, and building responsive institutions,” she added.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Governing Council of Trinity University, Pastor Samuel Olatunji, described good governance as central to the success of universities, particularly younger institutions. He commended the management for organizing the lecture and encouraged participants to apply the lessons learned.
Vice-Chancellor of Trinity University, Prof. Clement Kolawole, in his welcome address, expressed the university’s commitment to fostering academic discourse through lecture series across its faculties and departments. He praised Faluyi’s contribution and noted that her lecture would greatly benefit attendees and their institutions.
Registrar of Trinity University, Mr. David Oyejide, also affirmed the vital role of registry staff in shaping university governance and thanked participants for their engagement in the lecture.
